THE new Ilkley Arts studio and new meeting space situated in one of the lovely cottages in the courtyard of the Manor House will officially open on July 24.

"The new studio and meeting space in the cottages are fantastic new venues." said Sarah Thomas, chairwoman of Ilkley Arts. "We have been working closely with the new Ilkley Manor House Trust as there was an obvious creative partnership that has been forged between the two organisations. We are also very grateful to the Town Council for their continuing support to Ilkley Arts and their award has help fund some of the renovating changes in the rooms.

"To celebrate the move and extend our reach into the community, we are launching a membership scheme. If, like us, you love Ilkley and love the arts, and want to make a difference to create a vibrant community for everyone, then please support us by becoming a member of the Arts Hub. For only £5 per month, members can enjoy exclusive benefits as well as being able to contribute to and support our work and the development of the Arts Hub."

Sarah outlined what else Ilkley Arts was planning for 2018. "We have the 2018 arts weekend planned for the weekend Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 October. Lots more information on this weekend will come out later in the Summer. So put the date in the diary!

"In addition to this exciting weekend and following last year’s very successful Christmas Art and Gift Fair Ilkley Arts will be running another event at the Manor House over the first weekend of December. Keep watching for more information on this event over the coming months.

"Go to www.ilkleyarts.org for more information about the Arts Hub and membership scheme."